Oviedo’s injury woes to spark Martinez into action

Everton plot £8m swoop

Everton are ready to launch an £8m move for Feyenoord defender Bruno Martins Indi, according to reports from The Sun.

The 12-time Dutch international has been earning rave reviews for his Eredivisie displays for some time, and has been heavily linked with Newcastle in recent times.

But, following Bryan Oviedo’s horror injury in Saturday’s FA Cup win at Stevenage, Roberto Martinez is ready to press ahead with a move.

Martins Indi would not be a direct replacement for the Costa Rican, but his arrival could ease the load on other defensive players and allow the Toffees to alter their shape or move players to cover their absent man.

It is believed that Feyenoord will do business for around £8m, which is a figure Everton may be willing to stretch to with Champions League qualification a genuine possibility.

The 21-year-old himself may also be open to a big move, with the increased exposure having the potential to guarantee him a spot in the Oranje’s World Cup squad.

Newcastle could yet mount a late offer, but the lure of a genuine top four challenge could tempt the powerful defender.